keshi – GABRIEL

Review

Dive into the emotional odyssey that is keshi's debut album, "GABRIEL," a sonic tapestry that's as intimate as it is musically diverse. Released on March 25, 2022, this album is a soul-baring journey through the ebbs and flows of life, love, and the quest for identity amidst the glare of the public eye. keshi lays bare his vulnerabilities, weaving tales of triumph and tribulation, fame and family, all while showcasing his prowess as a singer, songwriter, and producer.

"GABRIEL" isn't just an album; it's a narrative arc peppered with raw emotion and vivid storytelling. It's a tale that starts with the exhilaration of independence and the swagger of confidence, then gently glides into the unpredictable waters of new love, with tracks like "WESTSIDE" and "TOUCH" capturing that heady mix of excitement and trepidation. As the album unfolds, listeners are drawn into the deeper, more intimate recesses of love's most tender and tumultuous moments, from the soaring highs to the crashing lows, as heard in the poignant "HELL/HEAVEN" and the reflective "ANGOSTURA." The emotional journey reaches its zenith with "UNDERSTAND" and "ANGEL," where the pain of loss is explored with heart-wrenching honesty.

In "GABRIEL," keshi's vocal dexterity is on full display, shifting effortlessly from rich baritone lows to delicate falsetto highs, a testament to his range as an artist. The album's production, a collaborative effort with Elie Rizk, is a masterclass in modern R&B and alternative-pop, blending lush instrumentals with dynamic beat drops, creating a sound that's both current and timeless. The intricate guitar work and gentle piano melodies add depth and texture, ensuring that each track stands on its own while contributing to the album's overarching themes. "GABRIEL" concludes with a sense of spiritual contemplation and closure, leaving listeners with a final, thought-provoking message: Before I leave, I see Gabriel. It's a powerful ending to an album that resonates on multiple levels, inviting introspection and a quiet anticipation for what keshi will share next. - Morgan